The Ministry of Defence is initiating the establishment of an ecosystem of test ranges for cutting-edge demining technologies

Approximately 139,000 km² of Ukraine’s territory remains potentially contaminated with explosive ordnance. To accelerate humanitarian demining efforts, the Ministry of Defence is spearheading the establishment of an ecosystem of testing ranges dedicated to evaluating advanced demining technologies. This initiative aims to expedite the adoption of innovative solutions in this domain.

The initiative was discussed during the “Modern Challenges and Innovative Approaches in Counter-Mine Activities” workshop, which brought together over 300 participants. The event was organized by the Ministry of Defence with support from the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).

“We are not merely creating testing ranges or databases—we are building a new safety ecosystem where every innovation undergoes rigorous field testing, and every solution is backed by a professional community. This is a systemic infrastructure that serves to save lives,” emphasized Colonel Ruslan Berehulia, Head of the Main Directorate for Mine Action, Civil Protection, and Environmental Safety.

The planned ecosystem of testing ranges will follow a hybrid collaboration model, synchronizing efforts of governmental, educational, industrial, and operational platforms to test advanced demining solutions.

A cornerstone of this future infrastructure will be the Training and Testing Complex for the development of advanced technologies and innovations in counter-mine activities, civil protection, and environmental safety, which was presented during the workshop.

This large-scale initiative, implemented with the involvement of the Ministry of Defence and interested partners, includes the establishment of specialized testing zones (for explosive, aquatic, and dynamic trials), a laboratory and analytical base for research and testing, an educational center for training specialists (including international programs), and a platform for testing and certifying new technologies for operational deployment.

The Complex will accelerate the implementation of demining technologies, enhance the quality of operator training, provide robust scientific support for innovations, and serve as a collaborative hub for interaction between the state, private sector, scientific community, and international organizations.